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How does solar work?

How does solar work?

By tapping into the sun's renewable energy, you can power your home while saving on your monthly bills. 

But how do you convert sunlight into useful power using solar panels? See below on the basics on how solar works then check out The Rechargery to see it in action. 

The Rechargery
How solar panels make electricity
Watch // How solar panels make electricity
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1. Solar panels

1. Solar panels

We’ll install your solar panels, so that the most sunlight is captured. The panels are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into electricity.

2. Inverter

2. Inverter

An inverter converts the energy from the Solar panels into electricity that is used in your home.

3. Smart meter

3. Smart meter

We’ll upgrade your meter to a smart import/export meter that works for solar.

4. Monitoring System

4. Monitoring System

This organises information from your smart meter and displays it in a useful format. This shows real-time generation, overlaid with your consumption so that you can see how much you’re saving.
5. Sell Back To The Grid

5. Sell Back To The Grid

When you generate more electricity than you need, the excess is sold back to the grid at up to 12c per kWh. 
 

*12c buy back dependent on lines company charges. Counties Network customers will receive 10.89c/kWh buy-back after Counties Network line charges are deducted. Terms and conditions apply. 36 month term and early termination fee apply.

6. Battery (Optional)

6. Battery (Optional)

Any excess electricity that you generate and don’t use can be stored in a battery for later use.  
7. Back-up generator (Optional, if off-grid)

7. Back-up generator (Optional, if off-grid)

If you’ve chosen to go off-grid you may like to have a back-up generator to ensure you have continuous electricity supply.